Cellulitis

The skin is susceptible to various cuts and wounds, which might lead to cellulitis, and it’s a serious condition that might cause severe complications.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis (cellular tissue inflammation) is a skin infection that spreads to the tissue under the skin, and it can affect any part of the body, but it’s more common in the lower legs. It’s a very common condition.

Causes and risk factors leading to cellulitis

• Cellulitis happens when there is a cut or crack in the skin from which the bacteria can go inside the body. Staphylococcus and streptococcus are mostly responsible for causing cellulitis.
• The risk of cellulitis increases when there is a weakened immune system, a history of cellulitis, obesity, prolonged swelling in the arms or legs, and other skin conditions like eczema, shingles, and athlete’s foot.

Symptoms of cellulitis

• Pain.
• Skin discoloration.
• The skin becomes pitted or lumpy.
• Swelling.
• Warmth.
• Blisters filled with fluids.
• Fever and chills.
• Extreme tiredness.
• If not treated, cellulitis could lead to bacteremia, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, sepsis, or toxic shock syndrome, which are serious complications.

Diagnosis of cellulitis

• Physical exam.
• Blood tests.
• Skin test.

Treatment of cellulitis

• Antibiotics.
• Apply warm compresses on the affected area and then elevate it to reduce the blood pressure in it.

Prevention of cellulitis

• Taking care of wounds and cuts properly by washing them with water and antiseptic soap and then applying antibiotic ointment and covering them and changing the cover regularly.
• People with diabetes or conditions that cause poor circulation should take very good care of their skin and ask their healthcare provider how to take care of cuts or wounds, if any.